Hey everyone, just wanna let you know, we listened to your suggestions and will have a new list of cheap Overlanders premiering tomorrow. Be sure to check it out!
You're absolutely right. I've always admired the Trooper. My neighbor had a blue Trooper II when I was a kid that I always thought was super cool and I know Isuzu used to build a pretty stout product. I had an '87 2WD Isuzu pickup when I was in college in Hawaii in the early 2000's. It had it's share of rust holes in the roof, but it wouldn't quit. I beat the hell outta that truck and the only thing that I ever had to fix on it mechanically in two years was a starter! I've always got me eye peeled for a good looking Trooper to feature here. Hopefully we can get one soon!
The xterras ugliness is why I fell in love with it over time, kind of like that pug your daughter brought home and you initially thought it was a mutant.
I hear you man! No matter what you think of how it looks, it definitely can perform, and that VQ V6... I had a Frontier at one point and that was the thing I remember most about that truck.
@@armandosoria7993 1st Gen Xterras are, second Gen Xterras are more of a 4th Gen 4Runner competitor. About the only substantive difference between them is that the Xterras have leaf springs in the back where 4Runners had 5-link rear ends with coil springs.
Thank you so much! Reading comments like this makes all the extra work that we put into it totally worth it. Sometimes, like right now, it sucks because I miss a week here or there because I get wrapped up in something else and don’t have the time to turn out a video I’m comfortable putting my name on. Hopefully I’ll get the client work off my desk today and can get this week’s video out on Sunday!
Well I'm hanging on to my 2003 Tacoma SR5 4X4 extra cab I bought new. Every time I bring it in to the local Toyota dealer for routine maintenance they try to get it from me. I just laugh at them. Nothing has ever gone wrong with it, not even dash lights. Oh, and it has only 90,000 miles on it and looks brand new. Probably one of the best vehicles ever made.
Tell them they'll have to pry it from your cold, dead hands! Never let that thing go, you'll regret it! Every time i see a facelifted First Gen Tacoma, I get really sad and upset with myself for letting the one I had go! Which engine does yours have the 3.4 or the 2.7? Mine was a 4WD 2.7L with a 5 Speed. Man that thing was perfect!
Yeah, awesome capable rig, but I don’t have a lot of confidence in the “Buick” engine. I use to do head gasket jobs on those at the stealership. Very easily job, but every once in a while one would come in and the block would have a slipped or cracked liner.
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We get the 300tdi in the uk Does not have the same head gasket issue as the v8. Like i say leaking oil is just old seals or worn pipes. Would you expect any less on a 20-30 year old car? Lol Fix the seal/ gasket or pipe and they are fine. Neglect just one of the 100s of seals that are in there and you got your leak. Lack of maintenance due to cost or lack of knowledge on how to ;)
Lots of great info, I am a Mitsubishi guy and figured I would add a little info. The SR models.. almost all of them are factory rear air locked and came with a 220 hp 3.5 DOHC V6. The transfer case is always locked in low range. The 2nd gen is split with the 97-99 models (2.5 gen) having coil front suspension and a SOHC V6. They are very sought after and not under $5000. The Montero sport was available with a factory locker, as are some gen 3 Monteros, option and year dependent. The ZJ almost never came with a 231 tcase most 6cyl have the 242 tcase with an AWD setting that is fantastic for overlanding; and all of the V8s came with the 249 witch is stronger but not as rock crawling happy. Also basically every timing belt engine is interference, all Toyotas are, the DOHC Montero engine is a bit more expensive, definitely a bigger job. O yeah, I am professional mechanic, and I own (overland) both the Jeep and the Montero. Both for sale now actually.
Bought a $3k Jeep WJ and besides the hiccups I’ve had, I love her. I also have a Z71 04 Colorado that became a local legend. I use it as my camper truck with a camper top. Love both and they are decent rigs. They both have needed some work but nothing too crazy
I think this is a pretty solid list. One other vehicle I would suggest is the 2003 - 2008 SG Forester. Probably go the non-turbo route if you're going for an overland build. But these can compete with any XJ or 4Runner now problem. Really regretting having sold mine earlier this year.
I've absolutely loved my 2nd gen Xterra! But I totally get the design opinions, I wasn't a huge fan of the look until I bought one. My wife really loved the look ever since she was in high school, and we got it for only half what comparable 3rd Gen 4Runners were going for in the area. We paid $7,000 for ours, but it had a couple extras and a brand new transmission, you can find them for under $5k easy enough. I haven't regretted it at all! We got the Off Road trim with a manual (huge plus there, I'll take manual over auto any day) and it's a beast, it goes everywhere I need it to, carry's everything I need, comes with a factory rear locker and Bilstein suspension, and has slightly more power and torque than even current generation 4runners. But, like you said, you need to do your research and you need to seriously inspect any that you look at. The 2nd gens have big advantages to the 1st gens and look better, but '05-'10 autos have serious SMOD issues to look out for (one more reason to love a manual) and until 2010 they had issues with timing chain guides wearing out. I'm not hugely fond of the electronic transfer case (our first offroad trip we blew a relay and got stuck in 4low, but it was a bit of a fluke and probably won't ever happen again) but all in all I wouldn't hesitate to buy another one in good condition.
I hear you there. I had a then-new '07 Frontier for a couple of years, and it was great. I had the manual, which exempted me from the SMOD club, except that the clutch disintegrated after about 7000 miles and the dealer told me to pound sand when I asked them to cover it under warranty... but that VQ engine! That's gotta be on the list of all time great V6's! We did look at a really nice looking 2nd Gen Xterra before we went with the Disco. We were into it enough we looked at it twice, I only think they were asking about $4k for it with just under 200k on the clock. It did have aftermarket Bilsteins and Toyo MT's on it, but ultimately, my wife had a love at first sight moment when she saw that Disco on eBay and that kinda sealed it for us!
I got a Gen 3 montero, love it! Cheap aftermarket parts (limited but cheap) and goes practically anywhere. Got mine with 150k miles for 3.5k, no major issues other than general maintenance and she’s got power when I need it and comfy enough for my 2 boys to fall asleep while driving :)
My sister had 1 brand new in the early 2000’s. Apparently they flipped more than any other vehicle at 1 time. Very controversial as far as reliability but I’m happy to hear yours has been reliable. I have the Rodeo and love it! Much more fun to drive than a 4Runner.
Man, I miss the the Mitsubishi of the nineties! Hell, they didn’t just kill it with the EVO, Pajero/Shogun/Montero, and the Eclipse, they also made a really killer big screen TV! Who remembers those!?!?
@@666hobart Try to remember that the 1st and 2nd gen Eclipse were fantastic if you got the AWD version with the 4G63T. They were pretty good at the time if you only got the lower spec 4G63 2wd. The 3rd gen Eclipse is when they went to FWD V6 and yes they were dogshit! The 4G63 is a rally legend with 10ish years of domination! Look around and you are still finding people building up these closed deck iron block 4cyl mighty motors.
Although they don’t have quite the off-road chops as some of these vehicles, the 1st & 2nd gen Ford Explorer (Mazda Navajo, Mercury Mountaineer, Ford Sport Trac) may also serve as a decent Overlander Platform.
Right! Most of them also spent their lives as pavement princesses! I loved how the two doors looked! Sadly, the last two door I've seen in ten years was burned out and abandoned on the side of a trail.
Suburban’s and Tahoe’s lifted on 35s all day long for Overlanding. They have a cult following now and the least expensive replacement parts, plus a strong aftermarket. LS V8s Baby! ;) No brainer
Gonna drop a hidden gem that most people have forgotten about and is still cheap. R51 Nissan Pathfinder. Before people say 'it's got independent suspension' look at how capable they are stock (payload and tow capacity), how cheap they still are, and reliable . Driven mine through hell's revenge is moab as well.
Got my 93 80 series for $3500. Daily driven and many camping trips for 3 years and now I'm ready to semi restore it. Dropping it off at Torfab next week.
My 2008 Ford Ranger Sport has been through some punishment in the Utah/Idaho mountains/desert, and still as reliable as ever. Most underrated vehicle ever
Had to chuckle at the Land Rover one, it is the last car I would take anywhere in the Australian bush. I do want to make it home lol. We just got a 2014 Prado (A real shame you got the weak Lexus version, missing the Diesel), but my grandfather has a late 90's model Pajero, just put your foot down and send it, and most times it comes out on top lol.
I've heard that mentioned a time or two about Land Rovers. Hopefully we never find out the hard way, but fortunately enough for us, it's never going to go that deep into the wilderness without our trusty 2000 4Runner to help it out of a jam. I was just looking at new Prado's on the Toyota Austrailia website... man I'd love to have that diesel fuel economy. I did the liters/100km conversion and they're supposed to get something like 30 miles per gallon! You couldn't get a 5th Gen 4Runner with the gas V6 to get anywhere close to that with a tailwind! I hate that we get screwed out of so many cool vehicles here... Don't get me started on the massive crimes I would contemplate committing to get my hands on a new 70 series here!
@@MattKester Yeah, the new Prado's with the power bump are quite nice. Also look at the torque specs on them, over the petrol engines. I put it in low range and the thing just pulls. You can tell the difference with the Camry engine, which is also 3 litre. Although I am enjoying the 150 litres, 1500km+ fuel tank range lol. My Camry was at 800kms The 70 series here has an entire cult following, if I didn't need the 3rd row, I would have considered it.
- Toyotas - Isuzu Trooper - Mercedes G class - Suzuki little 4x4 Jimny / Samurai, Dahiatsu Rocky, Dahiatsu Feroza, if compact vehicle are allowed For me no other brand or model is allowed. Could be awesome if Honda would sell a real 4x4
Right on! Sounds like you timed the market on the XJ. I’ve always kinda thought I’d like to have a two door one. I think I might have missed the boat though, unless I wanna pay through the nose for it!
@@MattKester i don't know if the market was up in those yet when I sold it. Maybe it was. I never planned on selling, did a bunch of work and spend a bunch on money. I sold it 1 month after building both diffs with 4.56's and truetracs, I didn't even get to enjoy my work! Guy really wanted it. Now after almost 2 years of driving this 4runner, and again doing a crap ton of work to it I don't know if I'd go back into an XJ, the ride and build quality is soooo much better! Plus it just hit 140k miles. Toyota parts are quite a bit more than jeeps stuff though, that's the unfortunate part.
You are way wrong on Land Rovers under $20k. Plenty of vehicles under that price that are great vehicles. There has only been one model that had issues and that was 20 years ago regarding blown head gasket issues in the early model Discovery 2. The LR3 and LR4 and very reliable. Air suspension problems? Air suspension lasts longer than factory struts/shocks and provide a better ride while being able to adjust your ride height at the press of a button. All facts!!!
Maintenance? Every vehicle needs an oil change lmao. This excuse is nonsense. If Toyota is so flawless, why do they even have mechanics for them? Also, Land Rover is cutting edge tech that is years ahead of their competition. Toyota is still pushing 25 year old engines and 5-speed transmissions and charging a fortune for them. Jeep? They use minivan engines lmao. Solid axles you might say! Ride quality is crap compared to a air ride rover. Modern Jeeps only excels in rock crawling when compared to a Land Rover. Daily driver and overlanding is much better in a rover.
This is a good List and the Pajero/Montero bought one they are extremely Underated. Mine is a 1998 NL stock and I took it on a dirt and sand track and it drives almost like a Raptor.
@@MattKester They do they are so Light and mine is the 7 seater long wheelbase wide body. There's so much features like Over drive, A/T centre difflocks and low crawl functions.
You forgot to mention the Hyundai Galloper. I imported one direct from Korea for $1600 USD purchase and $1633 shipping, and I love it. Has a Mitsubishi-based diesel 4 cylinder, turbo, manual 4x4. Based on a Mitsubishi Pajero Gen 1, it is no speed demon due to very low gearing, but that same low gearing allows it to crawl over rocks or dig through mud with lots of torque.
Oh wow, that’s incredible! I honestly had no clue until you said something. I just looked online an it appears like they sold a bunch of them in Spain too, I found like a dozen or so right off the bat. Unfortunately, the ones I was finding weren’t 25 years old yet. Thanks for sharing that, I might have to do another video talking about importable rigs!
@@MattKester is 25 years the magic number for importation there? Here in Canada it is 15 years, so my 1999 Hyundai Galloper fit right in. They were only made until 2003, so I can import one that year as well.
@@alexchristie2614 Yup, 25 is our magic number. There are some exemptions you can work to get some stuff in, but for general purposes, it's 25. Looks like that gives you guys a ten year head start on us scouring the world and picking up all the cool cars we didn't get in North America! You could probably make a killing in car speculation buying stuff now that you know American's are gonna snap up for no other reason than "it was cool and we didn't get it here."
@@MattKester 25... Groan that means only 1995 and older. There are the older Gallopers from 1990 that are an exact copy of Mitsubishi Pajero Gen 1, they are actually quite nice. Also, few people realize that the Dodge Raider of 1987 or so is actually a Mitsubishi Pajero 2 door Gen 1 rebadged to Dodge. Those would be perfect with a dropped in DFBA Mitsu diesel (and it will fit).
Man, I miss all those Dodge rebadges of Mitsubishi products from the DSM Motors era! Everyone seems to always focus on the Eclipse/Talon/Lazer or the 3000GT/Stealth, but you hardly ever see anyone mention all the other stuff they collaborated on, like the Montero/Raider. Didn't they have a pickup too? I think I remember a neighbor having a read one when I was growing up.
I used to have old Pajero (2nd gen, long version). After adding some equiptment it was good car for overlanding and some offroading as well. I really regret that I sold it... but at the time I was not so deep into that topic.
Sorry but all my jeeps for $5000 or under and they all rock..it can be done. Really they are cheap and reliable. Just scored a 2006 with a hemi for $5k. Way lower gearing in 4wd then my 2001which I'm sorry to say I blew up in a river..i go through trucks like tampons my friend used to say!
Having hand for jeeps myself, I think I would rather spend the extra $1500 and get me a good Cherokee with a 4.0. No, you’re not gonna find a good forerunner for that much money, but I don’t see the point.
Nice! Our 2000 SR5 is rolling through the mid 160's right now, but I have no doubts she'll be a three or four hundred thousand mile rig. She's gonna start getting featured a little more coming up in January as she's way overdue for some necessary maintenance. I'm going to be doing the front end bushings and upper ball joints for sure, and I might be getting creative with a couple of other things. Hopefully you can check it out when I start publishing them!
I have a 1992 pathfinder xe 4x4, I love this little rig. It sat behind the barn for years with a bad transmission. When the pandemic hit I put a new trans in it new tires and rebuilt the front end. Changed oil and drained the gas. Runs like a top. Timing belt should be done next.
I'd throw in the Jeep WJ. Stiffened chassis with the 4.0 or 4.7 V8... Plus the track bar less rear dana 44. Makes for a great Overland rig. I got mine for a $1000
Thanks… we’d have dropped the “overland” portion of the name a while ago if it didn’t rhyme so well… I’m with you, though, it has become one of those terms that can get a little cringeworthy!
It’s definitely worth taking a look at. Only you can answer that, but it’s definitely worth taking a look at. Even if it ends up needing a $1000-$2000 worth of work, you’d still be getting a second Gen Montero for a steal!
@@MattKester Thanks for the reply! I figured at that price I can get most of my money back at the scrap yard. You have a good point though. Investing a bit into it could get me another 100k miles...maybe. lol Also, what are known issues I should look for?
Nice, though I would put the 2nd gen Isuzu Trooper on this list right next to the Montero. Very similar mechanically, but cheaper, readily available, and I'd argue quite a bit more reliable.
I hear you. I was literally almost to the coin flipping stage to decide between these two. The Trooper is definitely on my radar and I plan on talking about it very soon!
As a 25 year veteran import mechanic I will argue... That they are about the same. All of the Japanese vehicles are, if you take good care of them they will take good care of you. There is truly nothing particularly special about Toyota. People tend to forget a lot of maintenance, and then complain. My ZJ is JUNK compared to a import rig, but hasn't ever, not gotten me home, in 10 years.
Love ur channel! Just got into looking at the disco 1 my Subaru sti is my first car but not really an off road vehicle anymore, been looking into montero’s, Isuzu trooper, jimney’s, 4 runners, Honda passports, Isuzu rodeo’s, s-10 blazers, etc but after looking into the land rover growing up always thought it was too expensive but after doing research the only things that are expensive/ are going to be the main issues are : head gasket which these are nice compared to my Subaru where you have to do timing when u take the heads off and engine out and the other is suspension parts🤷♂️ maybe the leaking sunroof but not really bad one of the more expensive parts would be the radiator but haven’t really seen anything on those commonly going out but keep up the content!😁
First off, great video! I enjoyed the way you delivered your content. Second, I've had two ZJs, one with the 4.0 and one with the 5.2. Both were fantastic vehicles for me and were amazing on the trail. I loved the power of the 5.2, but it drank gas like a dehydrated dog after a long run. Loaded down with off-road gear it was especially bad. I sold my ZJ recently and bought a 2008 Jeep WK with the 3.0 CRD engine and I LOVE that rig. It has torque for days and even fully loaded down I get around 23mpg on the highway. The WK is a real sleeper in the overlanding world, especially the 3.0 but the 5.7 is great too. They get a bad rap because of the 4.7 (turd of an engine) and the 3.7 (underpowered) but they can be really great and can also be had for a good price. I paid $5500 for mine. Granted, it needed a little work but I had no issues sorting it out and I've got a reliable beast that is easy to work on now. The sound of that turbodiesel is super satisfying for a gear head. The 5.7 and the 3.0 both come with an electronic limited slip system which locks out the front and/or rear diffs when it senses a lack of traction. It works super well. I've never been stuck in it.
man you should see the used market here in canada...... most of the truck you mentionned are not available in canada or rotten by rust to the core.... its a nightmare to find anything correct under 10k...
I hear you, I made this video almost a year ago and a lot of the rigs on this list have gone out of the “budget” price range here as well. Have grown up next door to you in Alaska, I know all to well what havoc the joys of winter do to vehicles. Which part of Canada do you hail from?
@@MattKester Québec. Yeah with covid and the shortage of chips for new vehicles, the used market just skyrocketed.... Still waiting for my JL after 7months..... I was looking for a budget rig for my wife and so far the only one I found is a grand cherokee 2008 with 160k km for around 6k$$. Toyota are wayyyyy too expensive or have like 400k km and still over 6k$
Dang I've owned most of this list! I had an 89 Montero (4 door), a Disco I with a 5-speed, a Jeep ZJ, and a Gen 3 4Runner. The Montero was ridiculously reliable and fantastic ride on all terrain but are super hard to find now and no aftermarket stuff or even spare parts anymore, and the Disco was the best off road bone stock. The 4 Runner had a rough ride, and I never wheeled it. Honestly for the buck, the ZJ wins hands down. Great on and off road, super cheap to buy, even cheaper to fix. The 6 cylinder is tough as a mule and easy to work on. Plus, lots of aftermarket parts. I put a 2" budget boost lift on it for 50 bucks, 31 x 10.50 tires and could go anywhere.
This is a 3 year old vid now. Just recentley i was gifted a jeep commander. Guy took real good care of it. For a 2006. Its got the v8 4.7. He didnt like the hemis valve cut off system. Its a fun jeep to drive. Ive already took it on some trails around where i live and had q great time. Now im thinking about upgrading it for more rugged trails around here where i live. Its all wheel drive with a 4 low. Ive had toyotas, gm and chevs. This is my first jeep. First im fixing up my k2500 gmc. Thats a beast. Then hopefully next year get the jeep upgraded. Theres a good number of commanders for sale for under 5 grand. Knowing what i know now about the commander id pick up a limited. 2 rigs is enough for now. Like the vid
I’m just here to say leave the 2/2.5 gen Pajeros/Monteros/Shoguns alone! I’m loving my 2.5 Winter Package but we don’t need the prices to go out the roof. They’ve gone from being $5K to like $15K in a matter of years and after Rona…
Huge fan of the Discos- both Series I and II- with maintenance and attention- they're beasts off road! Biggest thing to watch out for is, as you pointed out, the head gaskets- but on the Series II- if you do the inline thermostat mod- that problem pretty much goes away. Super luxury with some of the best off road prowess available still to this day. Hill Decent Control is amazing- as is traction control. Full time 4WD makes them gas hogs- but so is the Toyota Land Crosier at 10MPG....Nice content- I'm subbed! BTW- I watched your Disco Head Gasket video and the one that listed all the problems with the Disco listed by the specialist- you're taking the correct approach. Nearly every problem with Disco's can be tackled by a competent DIYer like yourself- at 1/10th the price any specialist will charge. Seriously- Land Rover specialists are very, very, very proud of their work- but it's work the owners that understand vehicle basics can tackle- and learn the items they are unfamiliar with. Parts are relatively cheap- do your own work and you'll not only know every inch of your rig- but it won't scare you to overland it anywhere in the world- and it will go anywhere!
Thank you! I was shocked with just how mechanically simple it was to work on! My first car was a 1987 GMC Sierra Classic 1500, and working on the Disco has reminded me more of that truck than anything else I've ever had. Now I get why old Land Rover's have such a following, they really were amazing! They're a testament to a bygone era where vehicles were built to be simple to maintain and operate, not the era we currently find ourselves in where you need a software engineering degree to do anything with vehicles that have a five-year, planned obsolescence cycle.
I went with the 180° thermostat from the tdi and a new Nissens radiator which basically does the same as the inline thermostat but just looks cleaner 👍
I recently bought a Disco 1 with 100k miles for $1400. The auto box is being re built for $2000 and according to the off road vehicle specialists other than the power steering pump, the rest is just simple general maintenence items.
Good for you, that's awesome! 2K for that transmission doesn't seem that bad to me, we had to put a new one in my 4Runner at 120,000 miles and it was a heck of a lot more than that!
A former girlfriend got a '98 Discovery. (Her family was very well-off and owned a dealership. She ended up taking it back after about a half-dozen things wend wrong in about 2 weeks. I have stayed away from them ever since. The Grand Cherokee is a glutton for punishment and parts are plentiful, but I'd take the "ugly" Xterra over any of your suggestions. There's a reason why 25 year old Mitsubishis are so scarce.
Hey I'm in the market for a truck to do some overlanding in. My question is whats your opinion I'm looking at a titan with a factory rear locker or a chevy/ram with a LSD in the 04-08 year range, for beginner/intermediate mountain trails would you want a locker or would a LSD?
Owned a 2002 Montero Sport 4x4…absolutely the biggest piece of sh!t I’ve ever owned. Hated that suv. Constant mechanical problems, plus cheap plastics (door handles, knobs,etc) that broke a lot. There was always something wrong with that car.
Just gotta say this video immediately hooked me just due to the production quality. I was expecting some run of the mill vlog-type video but it turned out to be much better than that. Loved the video, good job.
Hey brother. Stumbled upon your channel looking for mods for my 4th gen. You're doing an amazing job with your editing and production. The content is great too. Keep up the good work and I hope your channel gets the recognition it deserves.
That disco is by far the WORST vehicle I've ever owned. The ford pinto was more reliable. Cheap aftermarket parts don't last a month just street driving. It has rag joints instead of ujoint. They're crap! A chevy avalanche is a better rig and its a POS too.
The reason is you can't find another alternative because those that are listed are built to last! That's why they hold VALUE so high. Unless you find one that is rusted busted from someone who chose didn't give a damn "always laugh" about the prices because they sold their shitty rusted shit box for under the price so they expect a good condition to sell the same. Best alternative is the 1st gen Sequoia if someone really wants to go Budget build overland. Because I'm getting one! HA! they last very long too! besides from that tundra and 4runners and land cruisers. Sequoia got that 8 seater which can be clear up for more space to sleep inside and stretch your legs if you take out the 2 rolls back seat. V8 and 4x4 can tow mid heavy stuff if you wanted too. gas mileage isn't a big of a difference from a v6 5vz.
Oh wow.... they must have beefed it up a little more with the expectation of heavier payloads with that bed on there. I never even though of the Sport Trac... it's now going on my list of vehicles to look into in an upcoming video!
@@MattKester Its really odd that way. The axles on the sport trac had the explorer axles and cv axles, but the ranger frame and a fiberglass bed. It was also spring under axle in the rear. The 2nd generation however had IRS in the rear. It was a really odd vehicle.
Good video. Just sold our Toyota Landcruiser 90 with bleeding heart. Wasn't worth much unfortunately. From thbrlist I have also owned a jeep grand Cherokee. The worst car ever, from the 6 months I owned it it was on the road for about 1,5 months. The rest of the time it was in the workshop or on the back of a tow truck on its way to the workshop.
I am already used to being priced out of things. With getting Citroen DS for a cool car ("you had to buy it when nobody wanted them!" argument sickens me, as I was a child they were not made anymore and when I wanted one, I was a student with negative money). Same with good car to beat around the farm or a truck to do a camper box to travel through stuff, as offroar truck prices going to the space and I watch people owning trucks who paid several thousands some years ago... Also got priced out of homes or building one
Another issue with the disco 2 is the OBD2. The electronics are proprietary. Not all of the functions can be read with code style readers. I had and excitement one and would not read the engine speed/position sensor. Engine would just die, check engine light would come in but not give a code. Can only be read by a rover specific computer.
Your #2 without 4 wheel drive is a bad choice for people who like to off road in mud or sand. You really need 4 wheel drive to get you through this type terrain. If you're forced to stop in the middle of a sand pit or mud bog, you're not getting out with 2WD. 2WD may work in the desert or hard packed surfaces, but not in the deep, soft stuff (like sand or mud).
Chevy astro or gmc safari awd. Cheap and can be easily and inexpensively converted to 4x4 and lifted. Powerful and reliable engine for mini vans at the time.
Hey everyone, just wanna let you know, we listened to your suggestions and will have a new list of cheap Overlanders premiering tomorrow. Be sure to check it out!
It would have been cool to see a 90s Bronco Or Bronco II
What no love for the ISUZU TROOPER ...ive out wheeled my share of xj tj wj and 4runners
You're absolutely right. I've always admired the Trooper. My neighbor had a blue Trooper II when I was a kid that I always thought was super cool and I know Isuzu used to build a pretty stout product. I had an '87 2WD Isuzu pickup when I was in college in Hawaii in the early 2000's. It had it's share of rust holes in the roof, but it wouldn't quit. I beat the hell outta that truck and the only thing that I ever had to fix on it mechanically in two years was a starter! I've always got me eye peeled for a good looking Trooper to feature here. Hopefully we can get one soon!
If you can find one though... my friends dad had a turbo diesel one back in the day
The xterras ugliness is why I fell in love with it over time, kind of like that pug your daughter brought home and you initially thought it was a mutant.
I hear you man! No matter what you think of how it looks, it definitely can perform, and that VQ V6... I had a Frontier at one point and that was the thing I remember most about that truck.
Are xterras on par with 3rd gen 4runners?
@@armandosoria7993 1st Gen Xterras are, second Gen Xterras are more of a 4th Gen 4Runner competitor. About the only substantive difference between them is that the Xterras have leaf springs in the back where 4Runners had 5-link rear ends with coil springs.
I loved them since they were released. The “macho” looks, and the fact that I’m not driving a “soccer mum- mobile” is a relief.
The cinematography you show in this video is way higher than is necessary for a top 5 list. This video was an awesome watch.
Thank you so much! Reading comments like this makes all the extra work that we put into it totally worth it. Sometimes, like right now, it sucks because I miss a week here or there because I get wrapped up in something else and don’t have the time to turn out a video I’m comfortable putting my name on. Hopefully I’ll get the client work off my desk today and can get this week’s video out on Sunday!
Opino lo mismo...good job huey!!!
@@dshitznt x2 o sería x3
Definitely! It felt just a little bit like a vlog but super polished. People need to put out more content like this
Well I'm hanging on to my 2003 Tacoma SR5 4X4 extra cab I bought new. Every time I bring it in to the local Toyota dealer for routine maintenance they try to get it from me. I just laugh at them. Nothing has ever gone wrong with it, not even dash lights. Oh, and it has only 90,000 miles on it and looks brand new. Probably one of the best vehicles ever made.
Tell them they'll have to pry it from your cold, dead hands! Never let that thing go, you'll regret it! Every time i see a facelifted First Gen Tacoma, I get really sad and upset with myself for letting the one I had go! Which engine does yours have the 3.4 or the 2.7? Mine was a 4WD 2.7L with a 5 Speed. Man that thing was perfect!
@@MattKester It's the 6 with auto trans.
The Discovery is a great choice as long as you’re not depending on anything electrical or mechanical in it to get you back home.
So what you’re saying is it’s a poor choice.....
My thoughts exactly
They can actually take a huge beating and make it home. See Steve and This Week With Cars and his experiences in the cheap off-roader challenge.
That was a long time ago. Now everything is figured out and has good aftermarket.
Yeah, awesome capable rig, but I don’t have a lot of confidence in the “Buick” engine. I use to do head gasket jobs on those at the stealership. Very easily job, but every once in a while one would come in and the block would have a slipped or cracked liner.
Land Rover Discovery 1 which are pre 1998 are at least is better than 2000 - 2006 Discovery II.
James Pumphrey?
Never heard of ‘em... but if you know him, ask him if he’s ever gonna get back to me on that writer’s application I sent into Donut last month!
A mature and subdued older brother of James.
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Wow. This video has a gr8 narrative structure, wonderful music, and an interesting story.
Thank you! I really appreciate you taking the time to watch and comment!
I agree also great transitions!
Dont forget the 90s suburban and tahoes. all day long cheap and there were sooo many made that you can get parts everywhere.
But that’s not the point of this video . Those vehicles are too big and heavy
@@Noslime large, yes, but my Suburban only weighs 200 pounds more than my FJ80.
Why does everyone think they need monster vehicles for over landing?
@@flight2k5 gotta bring every gadget you can afford with you
I commend anyone who endeavors to maintain a flaming pile or British oil leaks. Here here
What was British is now Chinese and even worse
@@radicalron65 Indian!!!
Maintain it properly and it might not leak 😂
@@doominic1882 ....you wish...
We get the 300tdi in the uk
Does not have the same head gasket issue as the v8. Like i say leaking oil is just old seals or worn pipes. Would you expect any less on a 20-30 year old car? Lol
Fix the seal/ gasket or pipe and they are fine. Neglect just one of the 100s of seals that are in there and you got your leak. Lack of maintenance due to cost or lack of knowledge on how to ;)
Lots of great info, I am a Mitsubishi guy and figured I would add a little info. The SR models.. almost all of them are factory rear air locked and came with a 220 hp 3.5 DOHC V6. The transfer case is always locked in low range. The 2nd gen is split with the 97-99 models (2.5 gen) having coil front suspension and a SOHC V6. They are very sought after and not under $5000. The Montero sport was available with a factory locker, as are some gen 3 Monteros, option and year dependent. The ZJ almost never came with a 231 tcase most 6cyl have the 242 tcase with an AWD setting that is fantastic for overlanding; and all of the V8s came with the 249 witch is stronger but not as rock crawling happy. Also basically every timing belt engine is interference, all Toyotas are, the DOHC Montero engine is a bit more expensive, definitely a bigger job. O yeah, I am professional mechanic, and I own (overland) both the Jeep and the Montero. Both for sale now actually.
I had to use all my mental powers to ignore the music!
It sounded like clown music or something. I kept expecting long lines of people to pile out of each vehicle he showed.
Bought a $3k Jeep WJ and besides the hiccups I’ve had, I love her. I also have a Z71 04 Colorado that became a local legend. I use it as my camper truck with a camper top. Love both and they are decent rigs. They both have needed some work but nothing too crazy
I think this is a pretty solid list. One other vehicle I would suggest is the 2003 - 2008 SG Forester. Probably go the non-turbo route if you're going for an overland build. But these can compete with any XJ or 4Runner now problem. Really regretting having sold mine earlier this year.
I've absolutely loved my 2nd gen Xterra! But I totally get the design opinions, I wasn't a huge fan of the look until I bought one. My wife really loved the look ever since she was in high school, and we got it for only half what comparable 3rd Gen 4Runners were going for in the area. We paid $7,000 for ours, but it had a couple extras and a brand new transmission, you can find them for under $5k easy enough. I haven't regretted it at all! We got the Off Road trim with a manual (huge plus there, I'll take manual over auto any day) and it's a beast, it goes everywhere I need it to, carry's everything I need, comes with a factory rear locker and Bilstein suspension, and has slightly more power and torque than even current generation 4runners. But, like you said, you need to do your research and you need to seriously inspect any that you look at. The 2nd gens have big advantages to the 1st gens and look better, but '05-'10 autos have serious SMOD issues to look out for (one more reason to love a manual) and until 2010 they had issues with timing chain guides wearing out. I'm not hugely fond of the electronic transfer case (our first offroad trip we blew a relay and got stuck in 4low, but it was a bit of a fluke and probably won't ever happen again) but all in all I wouldn't hesitate to buy another one in good condition.
I hear you there. I had a then-new '07 Frontier for a couple of years, and it was great. I had the manual, which exempted me from the SMOD club, except that the clutch disintegrated after about 7000 miles and the dealer told me to pound sand when I asked them to cover it under warranty... but that VQ engine! That's gotta be on the list of all time great V6's! We did look at a really nice looking 2nd Gen Xterra before we went with the Disco. We were into it enough we looked at it twice, I only think they were asking about $4k for it with just under 200k on the clock. It did have aftermarket Bilsteins and Toyo MT's on it, but ultimately, my wife had a love at first sight moment when she saw that Disco on eBay and that kinda sealed it for us!
Most of us definitely can’t afford a $56,000 Jeep Gladiator.
$5000 or less? Now in 2022, that 4Runner would be at least $13,000 with a 6% interest rate
I got a Gen 3 montero, love it! Cheap aftermarket parts (limited but cheap) and goes practically anywhere. Got mine with 150k miles for 3.5k, no major issues other than general maintenance and she’s got power when I need it and comfy enough for my 2 boys to fall asleep while driving :)
My sister had 1 brand new in the early 2000’s. Apparently they flipped more than any other vehicle at 1 time. Very controversial as far as reliability but I’m happy to hear yours has been reliable. I have the Rodeo and love it! Much more fun to drive than a 4Runner.
Mitsubishi All day! 🙌🏻
Man, I miss the the Mitsubishi of the nineties! Hell, they didn’t just kill it with the EVO, Pajero/Shogun/Montero, and the Eclipse, they also made a really killer big screen TV! Who remembers those!?!?
I’m a a new ‘95 Montero owner. I love it!
@@MattKester The montero was good 3000gt too but that Chick car the eclipse was a piece of dogshit!
@@666hobart Try to remember that the 1st and 2nd gen Eclipse were fantastic if you got the AWD version with the 4G63T. They were pretty good at the time if you only got the lower spec 4G63 2wd. The 3rd gen Eclipse is when they went to FWD V6 and yes they were dogshit!
The 4G63 is a rally legend with 10ish years of domination! Look around and you are still finding people building up these closed deck iron block 4cyl mighty motors.
ZJ joke for the win! Awesome list and video!
Although they don’t have quite the off-road chops as some of these vehicles, the 1st & 2nd gen Ford Explorer (Mazda Navajo, Mercury Mountaineer, Ford Sport Trac) may also serve as a decent Overlander Platform.
Right! Most of them also spent their lives as pavement princesses! I loved how the two doors looked! Sadly, the last two door I've seen in ten years was burned out and abandoned on the side of a trail.
I got a 2nd gen ram 1500 4x4 5spd 5.9l V8 with the single cab long bed thats a blast overlanding and offroading, chugs gas lol
Suburban’s and Tahoe’s lifted on 35s all day long for Overlanding. They have a cult following now and the least expensive replacement parts, plus a strong aftermarket. LS V8s Baby! ;) No brainer
Glad I got my one owner mint condition XJ for $4k before they skyrocketed
Gonna drop a hidden gem that most people have forgotten about and is still cheap. R51 Nissan Pathfinder. Before people say 'it's got independent suspension' look at how capable they are stock (payload and tow capacity), how cheap they still are, and reliable . Driven mine through hell's revenge is moab as well.
Awesome vehicles! Flashbacks! I loved the 2nd generation Montero! Especially the 2 tone green! Absolutely beautiful!
Every time I see one I start wondering, "what if?"
I'm picking up a montero later this week.
I’m JEALOUS!!!
man i cant find one i like in decent shape
Got my 93 80 series for $3500. Daily driven and many camping trips for 3 years and now I'm ready to semi restore it. Dropping it off at Torfab next week.
My 2008 Ford Ranger Sport has been through some punishment in the Utah/Idaho mountains/desert, and still as reliable as ever. Most underrated vehicle ever
Had to chuckle at the Land Rover one, it is the last car I would take anywhere in the Australian bush. I do want to make it home lol.
We just got a 2014 Prado (A real shame you got the weak Lexus version, missing the Diesel), but my grandfather has a late 90's model Pajero, just put your foot down and send it, and most times it comes out on top lol.
I've heard that mentioned a time or two about Land Rovers. Hopefully we never find out the hard way, but fortunately enough for us, it's never going to go that deep into the wilderness without our trusty 2000 4Runner to help it out of a jam.
I was just looking at new Prado's on the Toyota Austrailia website... man I'd love to have that diesel fuel economy. I did the liters/100km conversion and they're supposed to get something like 30 miles per gallon! You couldn't get a 5th Gen 4Runner with the gas V6 to get anywhere close to that with a tailwind! I hate that we get screwed out of so many cool vehicles here... Don't get me started on the massive crimes I would contemplate committing to get my hands on a new 70 series here!
@@MattKester Yeah, the new Prado's with the power bump are quite nice. Also look at the torque specs on them, over the petrol engines. I put it in low range and the thing just pulls. You can tell the difference with the Camry engine, which is also 3 litre. Although I am enjoying the 150 litres, 1500km+ fuel tank range lol. My Camry was at 800kms
The 70 series here has an entire cult following, if I didn't need the 3rd row, I would have considered it.
- Toyotas
- Isuzu Trooper
- Mercedes G class
- Suzuki little 4x4 Jimny / Samurai, Dahiatsu Rocky, Dahiatsu Feroza, if compact vehicle are allowed
For me no other brand or model is allowed. Could be awesome if Honda would sell a real 4x4
Maybe Honda can find a partner to build one for them like they did with Isuzu in the 90's on the Rodeo to Passport or Trooper to Acura SLX rebadging!
Early Dodge Durangos are very affordable. But like the Jeep the little electrical annoyances are plenty.
Definitely one I'd overlooked that would more than fit the bill. It's definitely going on my list for a future video.
Loved the style of the video!! Awesome job! About to go binge some of your videos
Thank you! I hope you enjoy the rest of them just as much!
Sold my XJ for more money than I would've paid for it and bought a 3rd gen 4runner.... love them both !
Right on! Sounds like you timed the market on the XJ. I’ve always kinda thought I’d like to have a two door one. I think I might have missed the boat though, unless I wanna pay through the nose for it!
@@MattKester i don't know if the market was up in those yet when I sold it. Maybe it was. I never planned on selling, did a bunch of work and spend a bunch on money. I sold it 1 month after building both diffs with 4.56's and truetracs, I didn't even get to enjoy my work! Guy really wanted it. Now after almost 2 years of driving this 4runner, and again doing a crap ton of work to it I don't know if I'd go back into an XJ, the ride and build quality is soooo much better! Plus it just hit 140k miles. Toyota parts are quite a bit more than jeeps stuff though, that's the unfortunate part.
@@eriksdodges853 i have a 3rd gen with over 200k still runs and drives like 100k. and only preventative maintenence besides the valve cover gaskets
2001 Mazda B3000 all that way baby!! 2 wheel drive and STILL never gotten stuck! And you fix anything on it without a computer.
Absolutely, I miss the good old days of simple, truly compact trucks!
You are way wrong on Land Rovers under $20k. Plenty of vehicles under that price that are great vehicles. There has only been one model that had issues and that was 20 years ago regarding blown head gasket issues in the early model Discovery 2. The LR3 and LR4 and very reliable. Air suspension problems? Air suspension lasts longer than factory struts/shocks and provide a better ride while being able to adjust your ride height at the press of a button. All facts!!!
Maintenance? Every vehicle needs an oil change lmao. This excuse is nonsense. If Toyota is so flawless, why do they even have mechanics for them? Also, Land Rover is cutting edge tech that is years ahead of their competition. Toyota is still pushing 25 year old engines and 5-speed transmissions and charging a fortune for them. Jeep? They use minivan engines lmao. Solid axles you might say! Ride quality is crap compared to a air ride rover. Modern Jeeps only excels in rock crawling when compared to a Land Rover. Daily driver and overlanding is much better in a rover.
This is a good List and the Pajero/Montero bought one they are extremely Underated. Mine is a 1998 NL stock and I took it on a dirt and sand track and it drives almost like a Raptor.
That's awesome! After seeing what they did at Dakar, I imagine they are pretty dang awesome in the sand!
@@MattKester They do they are so Light and mine is the 7 seater long wheelbase wide body. There's so much features like Over drive, A/T centre difflocks and low crawl functions.
Nice! If you're on Instagram, tag us in some photos of it! I'd love it check it out. Use @frugalexplorerdad, @2ndhandoverland, or #2ndhandoverland.
@@MattKester maybe in the future cars a bit busted up from the last owner but Its alright just few scratches and dents.
Would love to see some pics of the 2.5 gen. They are awesome.
You forgot to mention the Hyundai Galloper. I imported one direct from Korea for $1600 USD purchase and $1633 shipping, and I love it. Has a Mitsubishi-based diesel 4 cylinder, turbo, manual 4x4. Based on a Mitsubishi Pajero Gen 1, it is no speed demon due to very low gearing, but that same low gearing allows it to crawl over rocks or dig through mud with lots of torque.
Oh wow, that’s incredible! I honestly had no clue until you said something. I just looked online an it appears like they sold a bunch of them in Spain too, I found like a dozen or so right off the bat. Unfortunately, the ones I was finding weren’t 25 years old yet. Thanks for sharing that, I might have to do another video talking about importable rigs!
@@MattKester is 25 years the magic number for importation there? Here in Canada it is 15 years, so my 1999 Hyundai Galloper fit right in. They were only made until 2003, so I can import one that year as well.
@@alexchristie2614 Yup, 25 is our magic number. There are some exemptions you can work to get some stuff in, but for general purposes, it's 25. Looks like that gives you guys a ten year head start on us scouring the world and picking up all the cool cars we didn't get in North America! You could probably make a killing in car speculation buying stuff now that you know American's are gonna snap up for no other reason than "it was cool and we didn't get it here."
@@MattKester 25... Groan that means only 1995 and older. There are the older Gallopers from 1990 that are an exact copy of Mitsubishi Pajero Gen 1, they are actually quite nice. Also, few people realize that the Dodge Raider of 1987 or so is actually a Mitsubishi Pajero 2 door Gen 1 rebadged to Dodge. Those would be perfect with a dropped in DFBA Mitsu diesel (and it will fit).
Man, I miss all those Dodge rebadges of Mitsubishi products from the DSM Motors era! Everyone seems to always focus on the Eclipse/Talon/Lazer or the 3000GT/Stealth, but you hardly ever see anyone mention all the other stuff they collaborated on, like the Montero/Raider. Didn't they have a pickup too? I think I remember a neighbor having a read one when I was growing up.
I used to have old Pajero (2nd gen, long version). After adding some equiptment it was good car for overlanding and some offroading as well. I really regret that I sold it... but at the time I was not so deep into that topic.
"for the person who just has to have a jeep" L O L
I couldn’t resist!
Sorry but all my jeeps for $5000 or under and they all rock..it can be done. Really they are cheap and reliable. Just scored a 2006 with a hemi for $5k. Way lower gearing in 4wd then my 2001which I'm sorry to say I blew up in a river..i go through trucks like tampons my friend used to say!
Having hand for jeeps myself, I think I would rather spend the extra $1500 and get me a good Cherokee with a 4.0. No, you’re not gonna find a good forerunner for that much money, but I don’t see the point.
My 98 4runner,,,,, 288350 miles and still rockin!!
Nice! Our 2000 SR5 is rolling through the mid 160's right now, but I have no doubts she'll be a three or four hundred thousand mile rig. She's gonna start getting featured a little more coming up in January as she's way overdue for some necessary maintenance. I'm going to be doing the front end bushings and upper ball joints for sure, and I might be getting creative with a couple of other things. Hopefully you can check it out when I start publishing them!
Some of the best commentary I've heard about Overlanding rigs. Also Montero for the win!
Thanks. There’s a third Gen Montero that just showed up in my neighborhood and I feel like it’s taunting me!
I have a 1992 pathfinder xe 4x4, I love this little rig. It sat behind the barn for years with a bad transmission. When the pandemic hit I put a new trans in it new tires and rebuilt the front end. Changed oil and drained the gas. Runs like a top. Timing belt should be done next.
That’s awesome! Keep up the good work!
This is an amazing video. I am actually mid filming an Isuzu Trooper overlander build! This motivates me!
Thanks! We’d love to see your Trooper! Tag us on the Gram, or share some in our 2nd Hand Overland Facebook group!
@@MattKester i joined and sent you a PM.
I'd throw in the Jeep WJ. Stiffened chassis with the 4.0 or 4.7 V8... Plus the track bar less rear dana 44. Makes for a great Overland rig. I got mine for a $1000
I hate the trendy term 'overlanding', but then I saw it's your channel name so I won't say any more about it lol. Nice video
Thanks… we’d have dropped the “overland” portion of the name a while ago if it didn’t rhyme so well… I’m with you, though, it has become one of those terms that can get a little cringeworthy!
I think the suburban or Tahoe is great option around $5k.
3rd gen Montero might be my favorite... They are going up really quick
I know it’s a little over 5k but the 98-02 lx470 can be had for under 7k here and that would be my go to for sure
just hold out for a good deal on facebook. i just got a truck someone put 12k into so far for 6k. putting another 1k into it and itll be fuckin 10/10
I was just offered a 1998 Mitsubishi Montero with 202k miles for $500. Haven’t seen in person, but apparently it starts. Would you? Should I?
It’s definitely worth taking a look at. Only you can answer that, but it’s definitely worth taking a look at. Even if it ends up needing a $1000-$2000 worth of work, you’d still be getting a second Gen Montero for a steal!
@@MattKester Thanks for the reply! I figured at that price I can get most of my money back at the scrap yard. You have a good point though. Investing a bit into it could get me another 100k miles...maybe. lol
Also, what are known issues I should look for?
ya here in 2021 you would have paid at least 10 for that more like 15k. :(
Right! It’s actually been kinda hard to not try and cash in on it… these prices are just getting ridiculous!
99-04 F 150, 4x4 haul what ya need over 300,000 miles
You ain’t wrong there! Company I used to work for had one that I believe had close to 400k on it!
you bought yourself a piece of crap....however, it's a beautiful piece of crap.
I wouldn't leave out the jeep wj either, still solid axles and a just a little more space than the xk.
We love the WJ so much, we made an entire video on it! Check out our popular videos playlist on the channel page to see it!
Love my ZJ Orvis with the V8 for offroading, but now working on a Z71 tahoe for overlanding
Nice! That Tahoe should make a great rig, especially with all that cargo room!
Nice, though I would put the 2nd gen Isuzu Trooper on this list right next to the Montero. Very similar mechanically, but cheaper, readily available, and I'd argue quite a bit more reliable.
I hear you. I was literally almost to the coin flipping stage to decide between these two. The Trooper is definitely on my radar and I plan on talking about it very soon!
As a 25 year veteran import mechanic I will argue... That they are about the same. All of the Japanese vehicles are, if you take good care of them they will take good care of you. There is truly nothing particularly special about Toyota. People tend to forget a lot of maintenance, and then complain. My ZJ is JUNK compared to a import rig, but hasn't ever, not gotten me home, in 10 years.
Love ur channel! Just got into looking at the disco 1 my Subaru sti is my first car but not really an off road vehicle anymore, been looking into montero’s, Isuzu trooper, jimney’s, 4 runners, Honda passports, Isuzu rodeo’s, s-10 blazers, etc but after looking into the land rover growing up always thought it was too expensive but after doing research the only things that are expensive/ are going to be the main issues are : head gasket which these are nice compared to my Subaru where you have to do timing when u take the heads off and engine out and the other is suspension parts🤷♂️ maybe the leaking sunroof but not really bad one of the more expensive parts would be the radiator but haven’t really seen anything on those commonly going out but keep up the content!😁
Thanks! Yeah, they are a quite relatively simple to work on compared to a lot of other rigs out there.
First off, great video! I enjoyed the way you delivered your content.
Second, I've had two ZJs, one with the 4.0 and one with the 5.2. Both were fantastic vehicles for me and were amazing on the trail. I loved the power of the 5.2, but it drank gas like a dehydrated dog after a long run. Loaded down with off-road gear it was especially bad. I sold my ZJ recently and bought a 2008 Jeep WK with the 3.0 CRD engine and I LOVE that rig. It has torque for days and even fully loaded down I get around 23mpg on the highway. The WK is a real sleeper in the overlanding world, especially the 3.0 but the 5.7 is great too. They get a bad rap because of the 4.7 (turd of an engine) and the 3.7 (underpowered) but they can be really great and can also be had for a good price. I paid $5500 for mine. Granted, it needed a little work but I had no issues sorting it out and I've got a reliable beast that is easy to work on now. The sound of that turbodiesel is super satisfying for a gear head. The 5.7 and the 3.0 both come with an electronic limited slip system which locks out the front and/or rear diffs when it senses a lack of traction. It works super well. I've never been stuck in it.
man you should see the used market here in canada...... most of the truck you mentionned are not available in canada or rotten by rust to the core.... its a nightmare to find anything correct under 10k...
I hear you, I made this video almost a year ago and a lot of the rigs on this list have gone out of the “budget” price range here as well. Have grown up next door to you in Alaska, I know all to well what havoc the joys of winter do to vehicles. Which part of Canada do you hail from?
@@MattKester Québec. Yeah with covid and the shortage of chips for new vehicles, the used market just skyrocketed.... Still waiting for my JL after 7months..... I was looking for a budget rig for my wife and so far the only one I found is a grand cherokee 2008 with 160k km for around 6k$$. Toyota are wayyyyy too expensive or have like 400k km and still over 6k$
80 and 100 series are super cheap here in Kuwait, it may cost you under 3000 US $
Oh wow! That's incredible! There sell for A LOT more than that over here!
Dang I've owned most of this list! I had an 89 Montero (4 door), a Disco I with a 5-speed, a Jeep ZJ, and a Gen 3 4Runner. The Montero was ridiculously reliable and fantastic ride on all terrain but are super hard to find now and no aftermarket stuff or even spare parts anymore, and the Disco was the best off road bone stock. The 4 Runner had a rough ride, and I never wheeled it. Honestly for the buck, the ZJ wins hands down. Great on and off road, super cheap to buy, even cheaper to fix. The 6 cylinder is tough as a mule and easy to work on. Plus, lots of aftermarket parts. I put a 2" budget boost lift on it for 50 bucks, 31 x 10.50 tires and could go anywhere.
I hear you. It's crazy how capable the first few generations of Grand Cherokees were and what a bargain they are now!
This is a 3 year old vid now. Just recentley i was gifted a jeep commander. Guy took real good care of it. For a 2006. Its got the v8 4.7. He didnt like the hemis valve cut off system. Its a fun jeep to drive. Ive already took it on some trails around where i live and had q great time. Now im thinking about upgrading it for more rugged trails around here where i live. Its all wheel drive with a 4 low. Ive had toyotas, gm and chevs. This is my first jeep. First im fixing up my k2500 gmc. Thats a beast. Then hopefully next year get the jeep upgraded. Theres a good number of commanders for sale for under 5 grand. Knowing what i know now about the commander id pick up a limited. 2 rigs is enough for now. Like the vid
H1 Hummer would be amazing if I could afford one :(
I’m just here to say leave the 2/2.5 gen Pajeros/Monteros/Shoguns alone! I’m loving my 2.5 Winter Package but we don’t need the prices to go out the roof. They’ve gone from being $5K to like $15K in a matter of years and after Rona…
Huge fan of the Discos- both Series I and II- with maintenance and attention- they're beasts off road! Biggest thing to watch out for is, as you pointed out, the head gaskets- but on the Series II- if you do the inline thermostat mod- that problem pretty much goes away. Super luxury with some of the best off road prowess available still to this day. Hill Decent Control is amazing- as is traction control. Full time 4WD makes them gas hogs- but so is the Toyota Land Crosier at 10MPG....Nice content- I'm subbed! BTW- I watched your Disco Head Gasket video and the one that listed all the problems with the Disco listed by the specialist- you're taking the correct approach. Nearly every problem with Disco's can be tackled by a competent DIYer like yourself- at 1/10th the price any specialist will charge. Seriously- Land Rover specialists are very, very, very proud of their work- but it's work the owners that understand vehicle basics can tackle- and learn the items they are unfamiliar with. Parts are relatively cheap- do your own work and you'll not only know every inch of your rig- but it won't scare you to overland it anywhere in the world- and it will go anywhere!
Thank you! I was shocked with just how mechanically simple it was to work on! My first car was a 1987 GMC Sierra Classic 1500, and working on the Disco has reminded me more of that truck than anything else I've ever had. Now I get why old Land Rover's have such a following, they really were amazing! They're a testament to a bygone era where vehicles were built to be simple to maintain and operate, not the era we currently find ourselves in where you need a software engineering degree to do anything with vehicles that have a five-year, planned obsolescence cycle.
I went with the 180° thermostat from the tdi and a new Nissens radiator which basically does the same as the inline thermostat but just looks cleaner 👍
I recently bought a Disco 1 with 100k miles for $1400. The auto box is being re built for $2000 and according to the off road vehicle specialists other than the power steering pump, the rest is just simple general maintenence items.
Good for you, that's awesome! 2K for that transmission doesn't seem that bad to me, we had to put a new one in my 4Runner at 120,000 miles and it was a heck of a lot more than that!
A former girlfriend got a '98 Discovery. (Her family was very well-off and owned a dealership. She ended up taking it back after about a half-dozen things wend wrong in about 2 weeks. I have stayed away from them ever since. The Grand Cherokee is a glutton for punishment and parts are plentiful, but I'd take the "ugly" Xterra over any of your suggestions. There's a reason why 25 year old Mitsubishis are so scarce.
Great information and amazing clips! Never got boring. Subbed for future content! 👌
Thanks and thank you for subscribing!
Hey I'm in the market for a truck to do some overlanding in. My question is whats your opinion I'm looking at a titan with a factory rear locker or a chevy/ram with a LSD in the 04-08 year range, for beginner/intermediate mountain trails would you want a locker or would a LSD?
Kia Sorento?
Jeep Commander?
Isuzu Trooper?
Suzuki Vitara?
Chevy ZR2 Blazer or S10?
Chevy 1/2 ton Z71?
I’ve just binged through most of your videos and can’t help but notice your camping chair and it looks super comfortable. What chair is that?
It's a Rio Hammock Chair. Costco had them on special earlier in the summer, but they can still be had on Amazon right here - amzn.to/34vHxDU
And before I forget; the best parts come from either Australia OR Poland OR Czech republic. Go figure...
Terrain Tamer is Australian company and supply to the mining industry. Amazing quality.
I love my 98 ZJ 4.0! You are correct on the electric gremlins though
Much love for the 4.0!
Owned a 2002 Montero Sport 4x4…absolutely the biggest piece of sh!t I’ve ever owned. Hated that suv. Constant mechanical problems, plus cheap plastics (door handles, knobs,etc) that broke a lot.
There was always something wrong with that car.
Just gotta say this video immediately hooked me just due to the production quality. I was expecting some run of the mill vlog-type video but it turned out to be much better than that. Loved the video, good job.
I wanted a 4runner around 2011 but it was 15k more than a Pathfinder with 90k less km. Since i dont rock crawl anymore the choice was easy.
Hah my 1998 Lada Niva 1.7 (2121) 4x4 only costed 900€ all of it 😊
Hah my 1998 Lada Niva 1.7 (2121) 4x4 only costed 900€ all of it 😊
Hey brother. Stumbled upon your channel looking for mods for my 4th gen. You're doing an amazing job with your editing and production. The content is great too. Keep up the good work and I hope your channel gets the recognition it deserves.
Thanks, Mat! I really enjoy making this stuff, too. Hopefully it will take off one day!
Ugh, my 4runner gotten totaled big bummer now they're hella expensive
That disco is by far the WORST vehicle I've ever owned. The ford pinto was more reliable. Cheap aftermarket parts don't last a month just street driving. It has rag joints instead of ujoint. They're crap! A chevy avalanche is a better rig and its a POS too.
The reason is you can't find another alternative because those that are listed are built to last! That's why they hold VALUE so high. Unless you find one that is rusted busted from someone who chose didn't give a damn "always laugh" about the prices because they sold their shitty rusted shit box for under the price so they expect a good condition to sell the same.
Best alternative is the 1st gen Sequoia if someone really wants to go Budget build overland. Because I'm getting one! HA! they last very long too! besides from that tundra and 4runners and land cruisers.
Sequoia got that 8 seater which can be clear up for more space to sleep inside and stretch your legs if you take out the 2 rolls back seat. V8 and 4x4 can tow mid heavy stuff if you wanted too. gas mileage isn't a big of a difference from a v6 5vz.
who said Disco was dead? long live the disco
We're trying. It's been an adventure with her, that's for sure!
Discovery is best with either the 200 or 300 Tdi engine and manual box.
I had a Ford ranger, then an Explorer Sport Trac that I build up. Both are decent for camping and light off roading. The sport trac had better axles.
Oh wow.... they must have beefed it up a little more with the expectation of heavier payloads with that bed on there. I never even though of the Sport Trac... it's now going on my list of vehicles to look into in an upcoming video!
@@MattKester Its really odd that way. The axles on the sport trac had the explorer axles and cv axles, but the ranger frame and a fiberglass bed. It was also spring under axle in the rear. The 2nd generation however had IRS in the rear. It was a really odd vehicle.
disco just marking its territory
Right… it’s like it just wants to keep you on your toes with a regular game of “Guess that fluid and where it came from!”
Good video. Just sold our Toyota Landcruiser 90 with bleeding heart. Wasn't worth much unfortunately. From thbrlist I have also owned a jeep grand Cherokee. The worst car ever, from the 6 months I owned it it was on the road for about 1,5 months. The rest of the time it was in the workshop or on the back of a tow truck on its way to the workshop.
All the used 4Runners on craigslist are 200k miles or more, wish I'd bought one pre-Biden
I am already used to being priced out of things. With getting Citroen DS for a cool car ("you had to buy it when nobody wanted them!" argument sickens me, as I was a child they were not made anymore and when I wanted one, I was a student with negative money). Same with good car to beat around the farm or a truck to do a camper box to travel through stuff, as offroar truck prices going to the space and I watch people owning trucks who paid several thousands some years ago... Also got priced out of homes or building one
Another issue with the disco 2 is the OBD2. The electronics are proprietary. Not all of the functions can be read with code style readers. I had and excitement one and would not read the engine speed/position sensor. Engine would just die, check engine light would come in but not give a code. Can only be read by a rover specific computer.
Great video content --I have to say that the Ford Rangers are good for one thing and that’s to beat the shit out em. Had two- they are garbage.
Your #2 without 4 wheel drive is a bad choice for people who like to off road in mud or sand. You really need 4 wheel drive to get you through this type terrain. If you're forced to stop in the middle of a sand pit or mud bog, you're not getting out with 2WD. 2WD may work in the desert or hard packed surfaces, but not in the deep, soft stuff (like sand or mud).
just wanted to say loved the video! keep up the great content
So basically, this whole video's point is that current off road choices suck these days. Buy something thats 15 years old and never driven. Good luck.
Land Rover I love you, why don’t you love me ?
I feel like that’s TFL’s theme song these days!
2004 WJ laredo 4.0 select trac. Paid $1200 for it 6 years ago. Aftermarket parts are cheap. Almost 200,000 miles.
A better parallel for the Land cruiser should have been the 2002 Isuzu trooper. For the wrangler parallel should have been the montaro
Chevy astro or gmc safari awd.
Cheap and can be easily and inexpensively converted to 4x4 and lifted. Powerful and reliable engine for mini vans at the time.